The BIG3 Basketball League
- May 27
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 17
The BIG3 is a professional 3-on-3 basketball league launched in 2017 by rapper Ice Cube and entertainment executive Jeff Kwatinetz. It features former NBA players, coaches, and celebrities competing in a fast-paced, half-court format during the NBA offseason. The league emphasizes physical play, entertainment, and accessibility, with games broadcast on platforms like CBS and Vice TV.
Founding of the BIG3
Ice Cube and Kwatinetz announced the BIG3 on January 11, 2017, in New York City, aiming to create a new basketball experience. The inaugural draft was held April 30, 2017, and the first games tipped off June 25 at Barclays Center. Roger Mason Jr. served as the initial commissioner, replaced by NBA legend Clyde Drexler in 2018. Ice Cube took over as CEO in 2022, steering the league’s vision.
BIG3 Rules
Games are played on a half-court to 50 points, requiring a two-point lead to win. A 14-second shot clock keeps the pace brisk. Unique features include four-point shots from 30 feet, hand-checking, and a one-on-one foul challenge system. These rules encourage aggressive, fan-friendly play distinct from traditional 5-on-5 basketball.
History of the BIG3
The BIG3 began with eight teams in 2017, expanding to 12 by 2019. The 2020 season was canceled due to COVID-19, but the league rebounded with innovative changes, including lowering the player age limit to 22 in 2020 and introducing city-based teams in 2025.
2017 Season
Trilogy, captained by Kenyon Martin, went undefeated at 10-0 to claim the first championship at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
2018 Season
Power, led by Corey Maggette, won the title. The league signed a major apparel deal with Adidas, boosting its visibility.
2019 Season
The Triplets, with Joe Johnson as MVP, took the championship. The league expanded to 12 teams, adding Bivouac, Enemies, Aliens, and Triplets.
2021 Season
Trilogy reclaimed the title, with games culminating in a championship in the Bahamas, showcasing the league’s growing global appeal.
2022 Season
Trilogy secured their third title, solidifying their dominance under coach Stephen Jackson.
2023 Season
The Enemies won their first championship. Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown made headlines by competing in the All-Star game.
2024 Season
Bivouac captured their first title. The league made waves by offering WNBA star Caitlin Clark a $5 million deal to play, though she declined.
2025 Season
The BIG3 transitioned to city-based teams, including Los Angeles, Miami, Houston, and Detroit, starting June 14. Vice TV became the primary broadcaster. Plans for international expansion, starting with Australia, were announced.
BIG3 Teams
The original eight teams were 3’s Company, 3 Headed Monsters, Ball Hogs, Ghost Ballers, Killer 3’s, Power, Trilogy, and Tri-State. Four teams—Bivouac, Enemies, Aliens, and Triplets—joined in 2019. In 2025, the league shifted to market-based ownership, aligning teams with major cities to strengthen local fanbases.
Recent Developments
The BIG3 introduced Fireball3, a variant with modified rules, to attract younger players. In 2024, the league sold its first team, signaling financial growth. Controversy arose in 2025 when a reporter was fired over social media posts about Caitlin Clark. The league continues to innovate, with plans for global tournaments and increased media partnerships.
Visit: BIG3
About the Author
Ryan Vickery is a staff writer for Massive Action Media with a degree in Sports Management. Based in Austin, Texas, he has been covering the NBA since 2022, delivering insights on players, rankings, and franchise history.
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